The family of Belfast defence solicitor, Pat Finucane, who was shot dead in the city ten years ago have said they are optimistic an inquiry may finally be set up to investigate the circumstances of his death. This morning they presented a confidential report into Mr Finucane's death to the Junior Minister for Foreign Affairs, Liz O'Donnell. The report by independent human rights group, British-Irish Rights Watch is understood to detail new allegations of collusion by British security forces in killing of Pat Finucane and two other Catholics.
Pat Finucane, a Catholic and a well-known defence solicitor, was shot dead at his home in North Belfast by the loyalist group the UFF, a cover name for the UDA. Mr Finucane had defended Republican clients in a number of high profile cases.
Last April, a United Nations report called for a judicial enquiry into the case, but this was rejected by the British government. British-Irish Watch claims to have new evidence that RUC members and a branch of British military intelligence closely and actively colluded in Mr Finucane's killing. His widow Geraldine and other family members presented a copy of the report this afternoon to the Northern Secretary and earlier to the Minister of State Liz O'Donnell in Dublin. This morning Geraldine said all she was seeking was for the truth to come out.
Minister Liz O'Donnell said human rights were a central part of the peace process and the government would be raising the report with the British side. Northern Secretary Mo Mowlam said she would give careful consideration to the findings. The RUC said Mr Finucane's killing had already been fully and independently investigated.
